Now this is probably a ridiculous question but is there such this as a place that you can actually go out and test pistols before you purchase? This is assuming I don't have friends that have the guns I would like to try. I am not a member of a gun club (yet) so I am unsure if they provide a service like this. Let me know.

01-21-2007, 08:40 PM

SuckLead

Your local range probably has some rentals. Just keep hitting ranges until you find the guns you want to try.

01-21-2007, 08:41 PM

2400

A lot of gun stores that have a range have rental guns. Or ask your buddies if you can try their guns.

01-22-2007, 06:50 PM

GlockamaniaŽ

The best way...in my opinion...

...is to join a local gun club.

I'm a part of a Concealed Carry Weapon's club and we have monthly range day. I've tried out Sigs, H&Ks, Berrettas, other Glocks, even M1 Garands and Springfield 1903 rifles!

Or if you're the loner type, scope out the local gun ranges and see if they have rentals. If you're in CA, I can suggest some.

Trying out a specific gun is a plus, especially if you're looking for comfortable gripping and different calibers. Good luck my friend.

01-22-2007, 07:36 PM

Shipwreck

I am lucky my local range has many rentals - but not all do...

01-23-2007, 07:19 AM

MMMike

Every year a couple of ranges in my area have "Manufacturer Weekends" Many of the makers show up with all their wares for you to fondle and shoot. All you supply is the ammo. One range does it in Feb. and the other in Sept. Great fun, free goodies,I love it. My calender is marked for this year. Check with your local ranges.

01-23-2007, 09:28 AM

SigZagger

Where are you located? Maybe someone on this forum can help you. My local range has rentals as well.

01-23-2007, 08:48 PM

SuckLead

Make sure you call around to local ranges because some have different rules. I know some ranges require you have someone else with you when renting and some even require that you already have a gun of your own before you can rent from them.

01-23-2007, 08:55 PM

Shipwreck

Quote:

Originally Posted by SigZagger

Where are you located? Maybe someone on this forum can help you. My local range has rentals as well.

Yes - there may be a member here in your area...

01-24-2007, 12:12 AM

clawlan

Quote:

Originally Posted by SigZagger

Where are you located? Maybe someone on this forum can help you. My local range has rentals as well.

I am in Rochester, NY. Anyone know of anywhere?

01-24-2007, 12:26 AM

noproblem5671

Call around first

Gun stores often have lists of local ranges. One thing you might want to find out before making a trek to a range with the intent of renting is if they have any requirements.

My range for instance won't let you rent if you don't bring one of your own. Part of their suicide prevention policy. I'm not sure that that is a common thing though. Some also require that you have had at least "some" experience, but it's usually fine if you don't just outright say "I've never fired a gun before".

01-24-2007, 08:53 PM

SuckLead

Quote:

Originally Posted by noproblem5671

Part of their suicide prevention policy. I'm not sure that that is a common thing though.

It seems to be getting reported on the news a lot more these days, but apparently this is fairly common. There's been a few in the past year around here, and everyone seems to have a past story as well.

01-24-2007, 09:25 PM

Revolver

I find it rather ironic that other people are held accountable for self-inflicted injuries and deaths. It is saddening that this is common these days and is a violation of people's civil liberties.
To get back on topic, this may not be an option depending on area. It is not an option for me for in my current situation. I usually politely ask others at the public range if I'm really intrigued by their weapons. More often than not they'll let you examine and try their prized weapons. Likewise, if anyone wants to try my weapons and if I have the ammunition or they have the ammunition, I see no reason not to.

01-24-2007, 10:12 PM

SuckLead

I agree with Revolver. It can be a slower way to do it, but some stores don't have what you want to try for rent. Also, make friends with the people working in the store. It isn't unheard of to get the range staff and sales staff setting up a date with you for you to try their personal guns. I pimp my Bersa out to customers all the time, and if I have the ammo I will let some of the customers try out my K31, too.